Kangaroo Island Adventure Guide

Kangaroo Island, located in South Australia, is a treasure trove of unique wildlife, breathtaking natural phenomena, and idyllic, secluded beaches. However, its isolated position means that it is often overlooked by travelers venturing to Australia, including many Australians themselves.

During our visit to Australia’s third-largest island, we spent five unforgettable days in this stunning locale, which many compare to an Australian Eden.

Is Kangaroo Island Worth It?

This guide outlines our experience on Kangaroo Island, detailing how we managed to stay there for free, getting around without a car, and the overall cost. Our goal is to help you determine if this destination is worth your time and budget.

Getting to Kangaroo Island

We arrived by ferry, a journey that was costly and quite bumpy; nevertheless, the onboard meat pies made it all worthwhile (even for those of us who are now vegan!). The Kangaroo Island car ferry operates from $20 without a car, and we opted for a complete package that included a link from Adelaide to the ferry and further transportation across the island. The entire process was seamless.

Upon reaching Kangaroo Island, you’ll immediately notice the claim that it boasts the second cleanest air in the world, second only to Antarctica. The pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters are truly captivating.

Thanks to house sitting, we received complimentary accommodation on the island. Just a three-minute walk from our place in Kingscote, we found beautiful, serene beaches. We were thrilled by how deserted they were, with the occasional sighting of pelicans and even New Zealand Fur Seals.

Wildlife Encounters

As we explored, we saw a plethora of wildlife, including seals, sea lions, and kangaroos. The diversity and abundance of wildlife were among the highlights of our visit. On our first evening, while enjoying a sunset by the shore, we spotted a seal and later found a cove bustling with playful sea lions.

During the tour, we learned fascinating facts about the wildlife and even enjoyed a local humor involving an emu named Julia, adding a light-hearted touch to our escapade. As we made our way through Seal Bay, we gained insight into the differences between sea lions and seals. Moreover, we encountered koalas in the wild, making the experience magical.

Cost Considerations

While Kangaroo Island is undoubtedly worth the expenditure, it’s essential to consider the following aspects to manage your budget effectively:

1. Travel Expenses

Prices may fluctuate based on your point of departure. Additionally, if you choose to travel with a car or via a tour, rates can vary significantly.

2. Accommodation Options

For travelers hoping to keep costs down, expect to pay approximately $60 for a private room in a hostel. However, we were fortunate to enjoy free accommodation through house sitting.

3. Food and Dining

Bear in mind that food prices are generally higher on the island due to importation costs. Therefore, bringing your own food from the mainland is advisable.

4. Getting Around Without a Car

We recommend exploring Kangaroo Island without a vehicle, as it allows you to fully appreciate the pristine environment while minimizing your carbon footprint. There are plenty of walking trails and guided tours available, making transportation manageable.

Conclusion

In summary, despite its costs, Kangaroo Island is a must-visit for anyone interested in nature, wildlife, and beautiful beaches. Our visit remains one of the standout highlights of our nine-month journey through Australia.

Have you visited Kangaroo Island? Do you believe it’s worth your time and investment?